Sydney, Australia - February 2025: In 2025, Australia's construction industry remains a powerhouse of economic growth, contributing over $360 billion to the national economy. Yet, the sector faces a growing challenge: a severe shortage of skilled labour, with a projected shortfall of 250,000 workers over the next five years. While the demand for talent is soaring, women continue to be underrepresented, making up less than 15% of the workforce, and fewer than 5% working directly on-site.
This gender imbalance is not just a missed opportunity for equality—it represents untapped potential in addressing Australia’s critical labour shortage. Diversifying the talent pool not only fills skills gaps but also fosters innovation, creativity, and resilience in an industry that is ripe for transformation.
Trade schools and apprenticeships are playing a crucial role in driving this change, offering women practical, hands-on pathways into the construction sector. These programs are equipping women with the skills, confidence, and real-world experience needed to thrive in a traditionally male-dominated field.
Amanda Bulow, Founder & CEO at Awesome Women in Construction (AWIC), comments, “It is great to see the number of trade schools educating and supporting the next generation. School-based apprenticeships also play a key role in providing a pipeline of skilled workers. Providing access to mentoring from an early stage ensures our next generation of women entering the construction industry understand the extensive community of support they have.”
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships: Building Confidence and Careers
Trade schools across Australia are offering more than just technical skills—they are creating opportunities for women to gain industry-recognised qualifications and hands-on experience. From carpentry to electrical work, these institutions are helping women develop practical expertise that translates directly to job readiness.
Unlike traditional university pathways, trade education offers a flexible, fast-tracked route to employment. With courses tailored to meet the demands of the construction sector, women can enter the workforce with confidence, knowing their skills are in high demand.
Apprenticeships offer invaluable on-the-job training, where women work alongside experienced professionals, learning practical skills while earning a wage. This “earn while you learn” model not only builds technical competence but also fosters mentorship and networking opportunities that are critical to career development.
These practical experiences are helping to dismantle barriers for women, providing the tools and confidence needed to succeed in trades that have historically been male-dominated. Additionally, supportive networks such as AWIC, NAWIC, and local industry groups provide essential advocacy, mentorship, and guidance, creating a strong foundation for women’s career growth.
Leon Ward, Regional Lead for PlanRadar Australia + New Zealand, notes, “Having a strong support system can make a substantial difference, helping women navigate challenges, grow professionally, and stay motivated throughout their career journeys in construction.”
Initiatives and Opportunities Driving Change
Australia is seeing a surge in government and industry initiatives aimed at boosting female participation in construction. These programs not only provide financial support but also create pathways for women to gain practical skills and access leadership roles.
Key initiatives include:
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The Women in Construction Scholarship (Construction Industry Training Board, CITB): Offering financial assistance, mentorship, and networking to women pursuing careers in construction.
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The Apprenticeship and Traineeship Program (Australian Government): Providing incentives for employers to hire female apprentices, encouraging more women to enter traditionally male-dominated trades.
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The Women's Empowerment in Construction (WEiC) Program (Master Builders Australia): Focused on leadership development, mentorship, and professional growth for women in construction.
Industry organisations are also stepping up to provide support:
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National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC): Advocating for gender equality in construction through professional development, education, and mentorship.
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Women in Building and Construction (WBC): Offering a platform for women to connect, share experiences, and access resources to support their career growth.
The Future of Women in Trades: Trends and Opportunities
As the demand for skilled workers continues to rise, the future for women in construction looks promising. Targeted programs, scholarships, and mentorship initiatives are making it easier for women to access training and employment opportunities. Industry leaders and educational institutions are collaborating to create pathways that not only provide technical skills but also foster leadership and entrepreneurial opportunities.
Amanda Bulow notes, “The increase in resources and programs to support and highlight the roles available for women in construction, is a step in the right direction. Next, we need the industry to provide work experience and mentor them. Providing work experience options cements the skills and knowledge they have learnt on the job. It also provides the industry with a strong pipeline of employees, filling the increasing skilled labour shortage.”
Looking ahead, technology is opening new doors for women in construction. Online learning platforms are making trade education more accessible, particularly in remote and regional areas. Leadership-focused programs are equipping women with the skills to move into management and entrepreneurial roles, ensuring they have a voice in shaping the future of the industry.
Leon Ward concludes, “As the industry continues to evolve and embrace diversity, these innovations will play a pivotal role in ensuring that women have a strong presence in shaping the future of Australia's construction sector.”
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Upcoming AWIC event: Celebrating International Women’s Day
Awesome Women in Construction (AWIC) have an exciting opportunity for students to participate in the upcoming AWIC International Women’s Day Lunch, proudly supported with funding from Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ). This event will be held on Friday, 7th March.
The focus of this event is to support all roles within the construction industry, and this opportunity is no different. This initiative highlights the importance of not only attracting young women to the construction sector but also creating a supportive environment to retain and nurture their growth.
Thanks to the ongoing support of Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ), the AWIC team are offering 25 complimentary tickets to eligible students - contact hello@awic.org.au or visit www.awic.org.au for more information about how you can support AWIC in engaging and empowering the next generation.
About Awesome Women In Construction (AWIC)
Awesome Women in Construction (AWIC) is a Queensland-based not for profit organisation with a national footprint, championing all women to have meaningful and rewarding careers in the construction industry. What started in March 2017 with just 14 ladies attending a ‘women in construction breakfast’, is now a powerful community impacting the active careers and future careers of countless women.
AWIC is now a key player in the movement towards gender equality and empowerment in a traditionally male-dominated industry. With a robust membership base, education and training network, stellar industry reputation, government support, and a proven track record of impactful initiatives, AWIC is committed to the growth and sustainability of the construction sector, and are actively seeking corporate partners who share our vision of increasing female representation from 15%* in 2024 to 40% by 2040.
Find out more at the AWIC website, or follow AWIC on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram or TikTok.
About PlanRadar
PlanRadar is a leading platform for digital documentation, communication and reporting in construction, facility management and real estate projects. It enables customers to work more efficiently, enhance quality and achieve full project transparency. By improving collaboration and providing access to real-time data, PlanRadar’s easy-to-use platform adds value to every person involved in a building’s lifecycle, with flexible capabilities for all company sizes and processes.
PlanRadar’s Australian chapter is currently partnered with the Australian Institute of Building, EPIC Group, Fire Protection Association Australia and was recently announced as a Best Stand Winner at the 2024 Fire Australia Expo, and an Established Suppliers Winner at the 2023 Australian National PropTech Awards in the category “Design, Build & Develop”. They also work closely with the Housing Industry Association (HIA) Australia, Future Place and Digital Built Environment.
Today, PlanRadar serves more than 150,000 users across 75+ countries.
Contact details:
Mia Hajje
Account Manager | mia@theatticism.com
+61 455 566 638
